"European AI funding reached a record $21.8 billion in 2025, up 58% in a single year. The continent's research institutions are world-class, and its startup hubs are producing companies that can genuinely compete on a global stage."
"European founders are building on infrastructure they don't own, distributing through platforms they don't control, and scaling with capital that comes with strings attached - strings that run directly back to seven American corporations."
"A European AI startup in 2026 writes its code on Microsoft Azure or AWS, reaches customers through Apple's App Store or Google Play, and processes payments on infrastructure priced in Seattle."
"The Meta-Google duopoly alone commands over 50% of global digital ad spend, creating a reality where thousands of European founders have no structurally independent alternative."
European AI funding reached a record $21.8 billion in 2025, marking a 58% increase. European research institutions and startup hubs are thriving, producing competitive companies. However, European founders face challenges due to reliance on American infrastructure and platforms. They build on services like Microsoft Azure and AWS, distribute through Apple's App Store and Google Play, and rely on advertising from Meta and Google. This dependency creates a structural issue, limiting true independence and growth potential for European startups.
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